In an effort to advance youth soccer in Salina, the City of Salina Parks and Recreation Department has partnered with the Sporting Club Network, an affiliation program between athletic organizations and Sporting Club, the parent company of Sporting Kansas City and Swope Park Rangers.

Through the partnership program, member clubs and organizations have exclusive access to opportunities and events tied to Sporting Club’s professional soccer teams and facilities. “Through this partnership, we will be able to offer more exposure to the beautiful game and bring members of the Sporting Kansas City coaching staff to Salina for clinics and camps,” said Chris Cotten, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department.

The combined membership of the program exceeds over 70,000 members, highlighted by the largest academy affiliate program across the U.S., with 15 branded affiliates representing the Sporting name and helping support the club’s larger player development goals. Alex Firchau, Community Affairs and Communications Youth Soccer Coordinator for Sporting Kansas City said, “As an organization we are continually striving to support all levels of the game and connect various youth soccer communities across the Midwest to Sporting Kansas City. This partnership will help us do just that in Salina and the surrounding communities.”

“Between the Salina Soccer Complex and the Fieldhouse, we will have two wonderful venues to continue youth soccer skill development,” said Cotten.

For more information about the partnership between the Salina Parks and Recreation Department and the Sporting Club Network, call Chris Cotten at (785) 309-5765 or visit www.sportingkc.com/scn.